Lorain City Schools Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Lorain City Schools has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and board governance.

Driven by a commitment to high educational standards, Lorain City Schools prepares students for academic and career success through innovative pathways and community engagement, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth for its employees.

Leadership Roles at Lorain City Schools

  • Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer - Jeffrey Graham
  • Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer - Tia Kearney
  • President - Timothy Williams
  • Board President - Courtney Nazario
  • Chief of Staff - Elena Gonzalez
  • Chief Operations Officer - Jeffrey Hawks
  • Jeffrey Graham - Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer

    Jeffrey Graham, the Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer at Lorain City Schools, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the district serving over 6,000 students. Graham oversees the implementation of comprehensive educational programs, including free, high-quality preschool and full-day kindergarten, alongside robust fine arts, athletics, and STEM initiatives. This leadership role ensures the district's commitment to high educational standards is met, preparing students for both academic and career success through innovative pathways. The Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer drives community engagement efforts, fostering strong partnerships that support student development and district goals. Jeffrey Graham also champions a culture of continuous learning and professional growth opportunities for all district employees, ensuring the educational staff remains at the forefront of pedagogical advancements. The strategic direction set by Graham directly impacts the district's market position within Ohio's educational landscape, focusing on measurable outcomes and student achievement.
    Jeffrey Graham

    Tia Kearney - Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer

    Tia Kearney, the Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer at Lorain City Schools, manages the financial health and fiscal integrity of the district. Kearney oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, and financial reporting, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. This critical role involves developing and implementing sound financial strategies to support the district's educational programs and operational needs for over 6,000 students. The Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer is responsible for managing investments, securing funding, and optimizing resource allocation to maximize educational impact. Tia Kearney ensures transparent financial practices and provides accurate financial data to inform strategic decision-making by the Superintendent and the Board. By maintaining fiscal responsibility, Kearney supports the district's commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering professional growth opportunities for employees. The financial stewardship provided by Tia Kearney is essential for the long-term sustainability and success of Lorain City Schools.

    Timothy Williams - President

    Timothy Williams, the President at Lorain City Schools, provides strategic leadership and guidance to the district's executive team and educational initiatives. Williams collaborates closely with the Superintendent and other leaders to advance the district's mission of delivering high educational standards and preparing students for future success. This role involves fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation in curriculum development and program delivery, including preschool, kindergarten, fine arts, athletics, and STEM. The President plays a key part in shaping the district's long-term vision and ensuring alignment with community needs and educational best practices. Timothy Williams also supports efforts to enhance professional growth opportunities for employees, cultivating a culture of continuous learning. By providing executive oversight and strategic direction, Timothy Williams contributes significantly to the district's commitment to academic excellence and student achievement. The leadership provided by Williams is integral to the ongoing success and development of Lorain City Schools.

    Courtney Nazario - Board President

    Courtney Nazario, the Board President at Lorain City Schools, presides over the district's governing board, providing oversight and strategic direction for educational policy and governance. Nazario leads board meetings, ensuring effective decision-making processes that align with the district's commitment to high educational standards and student success. This role involves working collaboratively with the Superintendent and fellow board members to set the district's vision and approve key initiatives, including curriculum enhancements and operational strategies. The Board President champions the district's mission to prepare students for academic and career success through innovative pathways and community engagement. Courtney Nazario also supports the fostering of a culture that values continuous learning and professional growth for employees. By guiding the board's fiduciary responsibilities and strategic planning, Nazario ensures the district operates effectively and ethically. The leadership of Courtney Nazario is fundamental to the governance and ongoing success of Lorain City Schools.

    Elena Gonzalez - Chief of Staff

    Elena Gonzalez, the Chief of Staff at Lorain City Schools, manages critical administrative functions and supports the Superintendent in executing district-wide initiatives. Gonzalez coordinates cross-departmental projects, ensuring seamless collaboration between various educational and operational teams. This role involves streamlining communication channels and optimizing workflow processes to enhance overall district efficiency. The Chief of Staff plays a pivotal part in translating strategic objectives into actionable plans, overseeing their implementation across the organization. Elena Gonzalez also supports the development and execution of key policies and procedures that align with the district's mission of providing high educational standards. By managing special projects and providing direct support to leadership, the Chief of Staff ensures that the district's resources are effectively allocated to achieve its educational and operational goals. Gonzalez's efforts contribute to the smooth functioning of the district's commitment to student success and employee development.

    Jeffrey Hawks - Chief Operations Officer

    Jeffrey Hawks, the Chief Operations Officer at Lorain City Schools, directs the essential operational infrastructure that supports the district's educational mission. Hawks oversees facilities management, transportation, food services, and technology infrastructure, ensuring a safe and efficient learning environment for over 6,000 students. This leadership position is responsible for the strategic planning and execution of all operational functions, optimizing resource utilization and driving efficiency across departments. The Chief Operations Officer ensures that all facilities are maintained to high standards and that transportation and food services meet the needs of students and staff. Jeffrey Hawks also leads initiatives to enhance the district's technological capabilities, supporting innovative educational pathways and administrative processes. By managing these critical operational areas, Hawks directly contributes to the district's ability to deliver high-quality education and foster professional growth opportunities for employees. The operational excellence driven by Jeffrey Hawks underpins the district's commitment to student success and community engagement.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Lorain City Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Lorain City Schools?
    Lorain City Schools is led by Jeffrey Graham (Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Tia Kearney (Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer) and Timothy Williams (President).
    Who is part of Lorain City Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Lorain City Schools includes leaders such as Jeffrey Graham (Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer), Tia Kearney (Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer), Timothy Williams (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Lorain City Schools have?
    Lorain City Schools has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Lorain City Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Lorain City Schools includes roles such as Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer, Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer, President, Board President, Chief of Staff.